About UrbanCSA

Urban Calgary Students’ Association (2012) is a student led organization originating from the University of Calgary. The objectives of UrbanCSA are to engage students on urban issues (especially those faced by Calgarians); to bridge the gap between the student, the citizen, and the professional. UrbanCSA runs monthly speaker sessions, tours, academic workshops and more casual events. The association provides members with the opportunity to meet similarly interested students and citizens; and supplement their degree with experience outside of regular academic activities.

We also own and operate this blog and comment on issues regarding sustainable development in Calgary and the surrounding region. In the past the club has commented, or developed, proposals such as secondary suites, PlanIt Calgary, the Brentwood TOD, etc.

UrbanCSA members touring Banff Avenue with a Banff senior town planner (2010).

Urban Calgary Students’ Association (2008) is a non-profit organization whose objectives are to inform, communicate and act regarding Calgary’s urban environment. Created in August 2008, the organization focuses on the undergraduate population of the University of Calgary and proposes:

• INFORM:Increase the awareness of urban issues among campus population.
• COMMUNICATE: Identify and represent student’s perspective regarding urban topics.
• ACT:Actively participate in the shaping of Calgary by supporting and fostering proposals.

UrbanCSA advocates for the expansion of sustainable urban development in the City of Calgary, and the creation of a new sustainable development framework involving private and public stakeholders. We believe that the increase of public transportation, residential density, and mixed land uses constitutes a much needed alternative to the present growth model of the city. We also understand that such alternatives, as an economical and environmental solution for the problems that Calgary and Alberta are facing today.

The organization currently counts with over 70 members, from different faculties within the University of Calgary. The club was chosen as the official Urban Studies Club of the University of Calgary in October 2008. Most of our members belong to the Urban Studies Program (Facutly of Arts).

UrbanCSA Members on the Drake Landing Solar Community Tour (2008)